CE floats development possibilities

C

hief Executive Chui Sai On outlined on Friday four possible routes for the further integration of Macau in China’s development strategy, and expressed a promise to “make better use of the supporting measures for Macau laid down by the Central Government,” according to a statement issued by the Government Information Bureau (GCS).

The proposals stem from an in-depth study on the “City Cluster Plan” initiative for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, as outlined by Premier Li Keqiang in his latest government work report.

The first proposal covers how Macau’s unique advantages may be best utilized to transform Macau into a world center of tourism and leisure, as well as a commercial and trade cooperation platform between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.

The other three proposals address the need for improvement in living conditions in Macau, including housing, transport and cross-border infrastructure; the development of young people and the promotion of a “patriotic spirit among them”; and the intensification of public administration and legal reform, to enhance and promote effective governance.

Chui’s comments were made during a briefing session in which the city’s top official explained some of the new policies set out in the recently concluded sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

“Getting a better understanding of the aspirations set out in the ‘Two Sessions’ [NPC and CPPCC] – together with concerted social efforts – would help to maintain Macau’s stability and prosperity, and contribute to the pursuit of further economic development,” said Chui, as cited in the GCS statement.

Chui also shared his personal understanding of the key themes at the “Two Sessions”, including the requirement that all government officials should act in accordance with the Constitution and, in the cases of Macau and Hong Kong, with their respective Basic Laws.

According to the GCS statement, there should be “steadfast protection of national sovereignty, security and interests” and “further use should be made of Macau’s unique advantages.”

The Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macau SAR, Wang Zhimin, added that people from different sectors in the territory should continue to uphold a patriotic spirit toward the country. DB